COLUMBIA, Mo. -- The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites youth deer hunters to a mentored hunt at Charles Green Conservation Area in Boone County during the early youth portion firearms deer season, Nov. 1-2. This free event will be for those ages 11-15. 

There will be a virtual meeting on Thursday, Oct. 30 beginning at 7 p.m. to discuss expectations for the weekend. The group will meet Saturday morning at a local shooting range to do some target practice. After the shooting range, participants should plan to deer hunt the remainder of the weekend or until a deer is harvested. Hunters will hunt while accompanied by their guardian and an MDC mentor.

Participants are encouraged to complete hunter education prior to the start of youth deer season. Each hunter will need to have purchased a youth hunting permit prior to the event. Permits can be purchased at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z4g. MDC will provide all necessary tools for hunting, but participants should bring their own snacks and water and dress appropriately for the long weekend outdoors.

The application for this hunt will close on Oct. 24 and participants will be notified on Oct. 27 if they are drawn for participation in the hunt.  This is an extension of the original application deadline listed in the 2025 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet. Apply online at https://forms.office.com/g/8g8tQ5Errf or by calling 573-815-7901 ext. 2886. Questions about this event can be sent to Conservation Educator Jenna Stiek at jenna.stiek@mdc.mo.gov.  

MDC is committed to accessibility at all of its nature centers, regional facilities, and conservation areas. To request an ADA accommodation for participation in MDC programs, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/accessibility.